Ten Days on Maui

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Ten Days on Maui

So you’re going to Maui? There are so many things to do there that ten days isn’t even close to being long enough. Also, this is my itinerary, and there are many others that may be better or worse. Hopefully this can give you a starting point!

A stunning sunset at Kāʻanapali Shores, Maui, HI.

On my first day on Maui, I spent time with family, catching up on life. This was something of a family reunion for us, and we came to Maui from all over the globe.

We stayed in Kāʻanapali, so the quickest and closest sights to see were by going north along the Honoapiilani Hwy (Hwy 30) toward Honolua Bay. Since we were just getting our feet wet, so to speak, we made a few stops to take some photos, but mostly were checking out the lay of the land.

Acid War Zone Trail and Nakalele Blowhole

DISCLAIMER: These trails and areas can be extremely dangerous, and the utmost of care must be taken by any visitor. Please heed all warnings, and stay away from the blowhole. Deaths have occurred in these areas. All visitors are responsible for their own safety.

The Acid War Zone Trail and the Nakalele Blowhole were about 30 minutes from Kāʻanapali, and were a perfect place to start on Maui. The trail along the Acid War Zone Trail is quite a sight to see. It’s very hard to describe, but it really amounts to some very jagged lava flows and rocks that will make you think you’re on another planet. To top off the surreal views are smatterings of some very vibrant green plants growing right out of the rocks.

Near the Acid War Zone Trail

The Nakalele Blowhole is really quite amazing to see. The height of the spout depends on the weather and the size of the waves coming in. This is a dangerous spot, so please stay far away from the blowhole.

During our stay on Maui, there happened to be one of the biggest storms in recorded history bearing down. The water spout from the blowhole was at least 50 to 100 feet high, and was accompanied by some large waves crashing over the side of the rocks to the upper pools.

Nakalele Blowhole, Maui, HI

Sunrise at the Nakalele Blowhole, Maui, HI

The Road To Hana

Now the Road to Hana is an obvious must do for anyone visiting Maui. There are so many amazing spots to stop along the road and so many beautiful sights to see. From stunning vistas to fantasy like waterfalls, the Road to Hana does not disappoint!

We started our trip at mile marker zero on the Hana Hwy. Our first stop was to get some pastries and delicious coffee at “Baked on Maui.” A perfect little spot to charge up before your long ride to Hana.

Twin Falls

Twin falls is a privately owned waterfall with a small stand for juices and other items.

The water at Twin Falls was very strong from recent rains.

Just a short hike from Hana Hwy, Twin Falls is a nice starting point for the majestic beauty to come as you continue the drive.

Unfortunately, I did not get the name or coordinates of this fantastic waterfall and swimming hole. However, you will be able to see it from the road. Although the water was quite brisk, we did get the chance to take a dip in this beautiful little pool. Keep in mind that this waterfall and pool are a lot bigger than they appear in this photo. Make this stop, take a swim, but be careful. The path is slippery after any rain!

This stunning waterfall can’t be missed as you take to the Road to Hana (or on your return).

Hanawi Falls on the Road to Hana

Waimoku Falls, Maui

Seven Sacred Pools and Waimoku Falls

After you’ve passed Hana, the final stop (for us) was the Seven Sacred Pools, and Waimoku Falls.

We opted to take the hike to Waimoku Falls, first, and it is a good little hike. The hike itself is about two miles in and two back. On the hike you’ll pass by smaller streams and waterfalls, as well as large Bannon Trees, and stunning views. You will also pass through the Bamboo Forest, where you’ll get to listen to eerie sounds of the bamboo clacking together from the wind. Keep your ears and eyes peeled going through the bamboo, as large pieces will randomly snap off and fall. I missed a large 20’ long piece from impaling me by mere feet, so watch out!!

Once you get to Waimoku Falls, you’ll be in for a treat. This waterfall is a huge 400 feet tall!

Now the hike back down to the Seven Sacred Pools took us about 40 min, and we were moving pretty quickly.

7 Sacred Pools, Maui, HI

Once you’re back down at the 7 Sacred Pools, getting a good photograph will prove difficult. There were quite a few people taking pictures, and there are really very few good spots to get a decent composition. The best spots near the water have been closed by the National Park Service due to safety concerns. Still, there are some good shots to be had, and the views are quite beautiful.

Overlook at the 7 Sacred Pools, Maui, HI

There are so many additional spots to stop at along the Road to Hana, and you will have to make your own decisions as where to stop. Unfortunately, it all can’t be seen in a single day. If you have the time, try to make the trip in two days, and you’ll see a lot more!

Snorkeling

There are lots of great places to snorkel on Maui, and unfortunately, we only got to a couple of the spots. Our first spot to snorkel was at Black Rock Beach, in the Ka’anapali area. Although it could have just been timing, we saw very little sea life while snorkeling here. There were a few colorful fish, a sea turtle, and we even spotted a moray eel. If you’ve never seen one in person, expect to get super creeped out!! Definitely a scary looking creature that seems to stare and snap its mouth at you as you swim by.

The next place we went snorkeling was further down the coast near Launiupoko Beach Park. This was actually a much better area for snorkeling than Black Rock Beach, at least for us on this occasion. We found lots and lots of really colorful fish, as well as several fairly large schools of fish to swim with. Closer to shore, we were able to swim pretty close to a large Sea Turtle who was feeding on the rocks. Very cool!

Our final snorkeling stop was sabotaged by a large storm that rolled into the island, and ended up dumping a record number of snow on the mountains! The location was Molokini Crater, which sits offshore of the island. Since we didn’t get to go out, I really can’t say how the snorkeling is out there. However, I’ve read several other reviews that ranged from “great” to “awful” for snorkeling. I recommend going out there to snorkel and judge for yourself!

Molokini Crater off the coast of Maui

Hawaiian Luau

There are lots of Luaus on Maui to choose from, but I can only speak to the one we chose to go to. We went to “The Feast at Lele.” The music and dancers were very good and put on a great show. The food was also very good, and is a five course meal. So take a good appetite if you choose The Feast at Lele, because it is a LOT of food! Also, all drinks are included in the price, so there is no additional cost there.

Drive the Kahekili Hwy

Okay, now this drive is definitely NOT for the weak hearted. Once you’ve passed the Heart Shaped Rock, the road starts getting more and more narrow. Eventually it turns into a single lane road, and there is two-way traffic. Keep this in mind if you decide to take this drive. Not being as brave (or careless) as I used to be, I decided to turn back after we reached Kahakuloa Bay, where there’s a turnaround at Braddah Chic’s Stop. Honestly, it is rather terrifying driving along the cliffs, and trying to pass a car with only a single lane. Take this trip at your own risk!!

Surf or Watch the Surfers!

If you are a surfer, or if you like watching surfers do their thing, then there are lots of spots to stop along Maui’s coast.

Maui Surfer

Maui Surfer 2

Hidden Cove

One very beautiful place to visit, is Hidden Cove (or Makena Cove). This is an amazing spot for simply relaxing, or taking some stunning photos. This is what paradise looks like!

Hidden Cove, Maui

Relax and Enjoy!

There are so many things to do while visiting Maui, that you will have to make your choices wisely. No matter what you do, have an awesome time!!

Please contact me if you have any suggestions or comments, and please check out the prints I have for sale! Also, check out my gear page if you’re interested in the equipment I used in taking these photos.

Thanks for reading, and please share this story if you enjoyed it!!

Best regards,

Matthew Reed

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